Strong Xbox shipping figures helped Microsoft post Q2 revenues of $24.52 billion, up from $21.46 billion for the same period last year.

Microsoft posted combined Q1 and Q2 revenues of $43.05 billion, an increase on the $37.46 posted for the same six-month period last year.

The Devices and Hardware Division, which incorporates the Xbox One and Xbox 360, grew by 13% year-on-year, generating revenues of $4.7 billion for the second quarter, compared to $2.8 billion for the year before.

Commenting on the figures, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer said: "Our Commercial segment continues to outpace the overall market, and our Devices and Consumer segment had a great holiday quarter.

"The investments we are making in devices and services that deliver high-value experiences to our customers, and the work we are doing with our partners, are driving strong results and positioning us well for long-term growth."